Overview
- The Landratsamt Kelheim warned residents on Tuesday after several dogs fell ill following swims in a stretch of the Danube and one dog died.
- Two people who spent extended time in the river reported nausea, vomiting and diarrhea and have since recovered, a development reported on Wednesday that strengthened the bloom suspicion.
- Authorities suspect a cyanobacterial or blue‑green algae bloom as the likely cause and have ordered multiple water samples along the river to test for toxins.
- Officials say lab confirmation typically takes several days and that the advisory to avoid bathing and to keep animals from drinking river water will stay in place until results arrive.
- Cyanobacteria can produce toxins that cause skin and gut symptoms in people and can be lethal to dogs that swallow contaminated water or lick their fur, a risk heightened by warm summer conditions that favor blooms.